Former volunteer fire chief arrested on larceny charges

NIANTIC, Conn. (AP) — A former Connecticut fire chief accused of misusing town funds has been charged with larceny.

Former Niantic fire chief Stephen Wargo was charged Wednesday with first-degree larceny, and released on bond. He is due in court on March 27.

East Lyme police said Wednesday they issued a warrant for Wargo’s arrest after concluding a nearly three-month investigation. In December, Wargo submitted his resignation amid allegations he collected money for shifts he did not work.

Wargo told police he was aware that he was submitting inaccurate time sheets, but contends he was overworked and under pressure.

Wargo is also a lieutenant in the New London Fire Department. New London Fire Chief Tom Curcio declined to comment Wednesday.